The future quantum internet promises to create shared quantum entanglement between any two points on Earth, enabling applications such as provably-secure communication and connecting quantum computers. A popular method for distributing entanglement is by sending entangled photons through optical fiber. However, the probability of successful transmission decreases exponentially with the fiber length. This makes it challenging to realize large fiber-based quantum networks that create shared entanglement, let alone the construction of a quantum internet. Quantum repeaters have been proposed as a solution to mitigate losses by acting as intermediary nodes that divide long optical fibers into smaller segments. The required technology, however, is still under development. In this thesis we aim to expedite the realization of fiber-based quantum networks by identifying shortcuts towards that end.